What Are the Risks of Teeth Whitening Treatment?

If you want to have a winning smile, that smile has to be bright, white, and clean. There are so many substances that can cause teeth to become yellow, stained, or otherwise discolored, which makes having a bright and beautiful smile difficult at times. That\’s why many people have come to our Bossier City and Shreveport cosmetic dentistry centers in order to undergo professional teeth whitening sessions.

While teeth whitening is effective, there are some risks involved that patients need to be aware of. Our team would like to take a few moments to look at these matters right now.

About Teeth Whitening

Let\’s first look at how teeth whitening is performed since this does have some bearing on its potential risks. During a professional teeth whitening session, a bleaching agent is applied to the teeth. This bleaching agent is then exposed to a special laser light that helps enhance its whitening properties. This is usually repeated two more times depending on what our dentists in Shreveport and Bossier City feel is best for the patient\’s needs and goals.

Now let\’s look at one of the most common risks of teeth whitening: tooth sensitivity.

Tooth Sensitivity After Teeth Whitening Treatment

Tooth sensitivity is common after teeth whitening since the bleaching agent affects the tooth enamel directly, making the tooth acutely sensitive to stimuli. This sensitivity usually fades after a few days, though some patients have noticed persistent sensitivity for a few weeks.

How severe is the tooth sensitivity?

The tooth sensitivity experienced after this cosmetic dentistry treatment can vary from patient to patient. In general, it is most noticeable when eating foods or drinking beverages that are hot or cold. Our advice to patients is to eat and drink things that are lukewarm. Avoid extremes in temperature until your teeth are no longer sensitive. Basically, you\’ll want to take it slow and take it easy as your sensitivity eases with time.

There\’s another risk to keep in mind regarding teeth whitening, though it doesn\’t have to do with the teeth themselves.

Teeth Whitening Won\’t Affect Dental Restorations

One thing about teeth whitening treatment is that the bleaching agents are only able to treat enamel of the tooth. Dental restorations such as porcelain veneers, inlays, and onlays will not be affected. These are ceramic materials rather than natural tooth structure, so they will not be able to be whitened.

It\’s for that reason that anyone who gets cosmetic dental restorations will often undergo teeth whitening treatments prior to receiving the restoration. Doing this will ensure that a smile looks as bright and white as possible after the smile makeover is completed.

Is teeth whitening still worth it despite the risks?

Yes. In fact many people believe that Shreveport teeth whitening is their best option for getting the smile that they have always wanted. There are alternatives to professional dental bleaching if you wish to consider them, however, and we\’d be more than happy to go over these matters in greater detail during your visit.

Learn More About Dental Care Treatments

For more information about teeth whitening and your many other treatment options for advanced dental aesthetics, be sure to contact our Shreveport and Bossier City cosmetic dentistry center today. The entire team here looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the best looking smile possible.